Batavia-based farm My-T Acres has agreed to pay a $7,500 dollar fine to the state: the end result of a so-called “chemical spill” that evacuated part of Batavia last October and left residents with stinging eyes and trouble breathing.

The incident happened in October 2011, when a My-T Acres worker spread the pesticide Chloropicrin on a farm field on West Main Street Road (Route 5). The State Department of Environmental Conservation says the worker was unqualified to spread the chemical.

Humid autumn air that day quickly created a dense, low-hanging chemical cloud. It shrouded nearby homes and left residents gagging. Some were evacuated while others were forced to close their windows. At least one employee at a nearby business was treated for minor chemical exposure issues. The incident was labeled a “chemical spill” by local and regional media.

After investigation, the DEC charged My-T Acres with three violations: application of pesticide by a non-certified applicator; use of pesticide contrary to label; and contamination of a non-target area.

My-T Acres waived a hearing on the charges and agreed to pay the fine up-front.